Sergio Pérez is increasingly being linked to a contract with the new Cadillac team and a possible return to Formula 1. After four years with Red Bull, his contract was terminated last year, forcing him to bid farewell to the premier class. Max Verstappen hopes to see Pérez back in the paddock soon, mainly because he still owes his former teammate a helmet.
In a Mexican podcast, Pérez recently opened up about his time at Red Bull. The 35-year-old driver had a few strong seasons with the Austrians, but in the last two years, he fell into decline. Even a new two-year contract couldn’t save him; in the run-up to the current anniversary season, he had to leave the battlefield. While Pérez assumes that Red Bull now regrets that decision, he had nothing but praise for Max Verstappen – the man who convincingly beat him last year in the same car.
Helmet Exchange
“Max (Verstappen) deserves all the success,” Pérez praised the Dutchman. “He is a great driver. Few people really understand what he’s made of, but he is truly exceptional.”
Verstappen was asked about the compliments from his former teammate during a press conference for the Austrian GP. “I have a good relationship with Checo,” he assured. “There is a lot of mutual respect.”
“I hope to see him back in the paddock soon,” the Dutchman continued. Does Verstappen wish him a new chance in Formula 1? Perhaps, but he mainly wants to return a favor to Pérez. “I still owe him a helmet,” Verstappen laughed. “He gave me one last year with a nice letter attached. I don’t care what is said in the media – we have a very good relationship.”
